Instruction Manual
LX850™ German Equatorial Mount Telescope System
With StarLock™
Looking at or near the Sun without a professional
solar lter installed will cause instant and irreversible
damage to your eye. Eye damage is often painless, so
there is no warning to the observer that damage has
occurred until it is too late. Do not point the telescope
at or near the Sun. Do not look through the telescope
or Finder Scope as it is moving. Children should
always have adult supervision while observing.
Travel Screw or Mirror Lock:
The LX850 f/8 ACF optical tube assembly (OTA) is shipped from the factory with the focusing
mechanism protected by either a travel screw or mirror lock mechanism. This feature secures
the primary mirror in a xed position during travel thereby protecting the focusing mechanism
from shock damage.
The travel screw is on the back cell of the 10” and 12” OTAs, near the Crayford Focuser, and
is identied by a dab of red paint. This screw must be removed before attempting to focus the
OTA. Failure in removal can result in damage to the Crayford Focusing mechanism. Retain
this screw for future use as it is suggested that mirror be locked down anytime the OTA is
shipped.
The 14” OTA uses a mirror lock mechanism instead of a travel screw. The mirror lock knob is
located on the back cell of the 14” OTA, just above the Crayford Focuser. When adjusting the
telescope focus, always do so with the mirror lock knob in the unlocked position.
When transporting or shipping the OTA, move the primary mirror to the travel position by
rotating the focuser knob counter clockwise until its travel limit is reached. This places the
primary mirror as far back as possible in its travel and is closest to the back cell. Reattach the
travel screw or tighten the mirror lock knob until rm. Do not over tighten.
WARNING!
Never use a telescope to look at the Sun without
a professional solar lter installed!
® The name “Meade,” “AutoStar” and the Meade logo are
trademarks registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Oce
and in principal countries throughout the world.
StarLock, Deep Sky Imager”, “LX850”, and “Tonight’s Best” are
trademarks of Meade Instruments.
Protected by U.S. Patent:
US 6,392,799 and other Patents Pending
© 2023 Meade Instruments.
Collimation of the Optical System: ACF Models ...24
Calibrate Home ............................25
StarLock Operation .........................25
StarLock Automatic Rate Calibration (ARC) ......26
Periodic Error Correction ....................26
StarLock and Mount Flexure..................26
AutoStar II Operation
The AutoStar II Handbox.....................27
AutoStar Navigation Exercise .................28
Example of Locating a Menu .................28
AutoStar II Menu Tree.......................29
Navigating AutoStar II .......................30
Object Menu ..............................30
Event Menu...............................31
Glossary Menu ............................31
Utilities Menu .............................32
Setup Menu...............................33
“Hot Button” Menu..........................36
StarLock Periodic Error Correction .............36
Advanced Autostar II Features
Adding Observing Sites .....................37
Creating User Objects.......................37
Using AutoStar to Find Objects not in Database...38
To GO TO a user-entered object...............39
Landmarks ...............................39
Identify ..................................40
Browse ..................................41
Alternate Polar Alignments
Two-Star Polar Alignment ....................42
Easy Polar Alignment .......................42
One-Star Polar Alignment ....................42
Align on Home ............................42
How to Drift Align LX850 .....................42
Download the Latest Version
of AutoStar II Software....................42
StarLock Assisted PEC Training ...............43
Update Menu Option........................43
Erase Menu Option .........................43
On and O Menu Options ....................43
Optional Accessories..........................44
Maintenance ................................46
Specications................................47
Appendix A:
Manual Drift Alignment ......................49
Appendix B:
StarLock Utility ............................50
Appendix C:
Automatic Rate Calibration (ARC) .............53
Appendix D:
Latitude Chart .............................54
Appendix E:
Advanced Coma-Free Optical System ..........55
Appendix F:
Initial Set-up Guide .........................56
Recycling/ Button Battery Warning:
How to recycle ................................58
Product Registration / Customer Service .........59
Meade Limited Warranty
Two Year Limited Warranty .............. Back Cover
CONTENTS
Introduction
The LX850 Telescope ........................5
Telescope Features
Precision Machined German Equatorial Mount ....6
Faster, Sharper Optical System ................6
StarLock — Full-Time Automatic Guiding .........6
Key Features
Figure 1: Right View .........................7
Figure 2: Left View ..........................8
Figure 3: Detail RA Access ....................9
Figure 4: Detail StarLock Counterweight .........9
Figure 5: Detail Saddle Plate ..................9
Figure 6: Telescope Control Panel .............10
Figure 7: StarLock Control Panel ..............10
Figure 8: OTA Rear View ....................10
LX850 Key Features ........................11
Assembly
Assembly Tools ............................13
Tripod Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Assemble the Mount ........................14
Attach RA Assembly to the Tripod..............15
Attach the DEC Assembly....................15
Routing Connector Cables Internally ...........16
Attach the Saddle Plate .....................16
Setting Latitude ............................17
Attach Counterweight Shaft ..................17
Attach Counterweights ......................15
Attach the Control Module ...................17
DEC and RA Connecting Cables ..............17
Attach the Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) ........18
Attach Diagonal and Eyepiece ................18
Attach StarLock Assembly ...................19
Plug in the AutoStar II Handbox ...............19
Attach the Viewnder to the OTA ..............19
Mount Additional Accessories and Equipment ....20
Balancing the Telescope .....................20
Balancing the RA Axes ......................20
Balancing the DEC Axes.....................20
Balancing StarLock .........................21
Getting Started
Focusing & Aligning the Viewnder.............21
Focusing the Telescope .....................21
Slew Speeds ..............................22
Aligning for the First Time ....................22
Finding True North/South ....................22
One Star Alignment.........................23
Syncing Your Eyepiece/Camera Using Starlock ...23
Test your Collimation........................24
INTRODUCTION
The LX850 Telescope
Advanced Technology for the Astro Imager
Congratulations on receiving your new LX850 telescope. You’ll nd that this telescope system has all you need to
explore the Universe we live in. Designed from the ground up to be the ideal Astro-imaging platform, the LX850
incorporates several new revolutionary technologies that will change the way you observe and image. Available only
from Meade.
Drawing on over 40 years of experience and innovation, Meade Instruments introduces the latest in a long line of
advanced astronomical products: the LX850. Using revolutionary new technology, every aspect of this amazing
telescope system has been designed to deliver the new standard in astrophotographic and visual performance:
• Fast f/8 Advanced Coma-Free (ACF) optical systems on the 10”, 12” and 14” OTAs. These optics
produce wider, atter elds with no coma for pinpoint stars out to the edge of larger imaging sensors
or extreme wide angle eyepieces.
• StarLock™ full-time automatic integrated guider assists with drift polar alignment, nds and centers
targets and then automatically locks onto a eld star as faint as 11th magnitude for one arcsecond
guiding. No separate computer, no guide star selection, no user focus. Just set up your camera and
image.
• German Equatorial Mount made from machined aluminum and stainless steel with large bearing
surfaces and roller bearings in both axes for an extremely solid and stable platform.
• Internal Crayford-style primary mirror focusing system with a dual speed 7:1 focus control, on ACF
OTA’s, eliminates image shift and mirror op. Precise focus is a snap.
If you are like us, you can’t wait to get outside under a dark sky to use your new LX850 telescope. We have
provided a Getting Started Guide that will get you up and running in the shortest amount of time possible. After
your rst experience, please sit down with this manual and read about all the advanced features that are available
to you with this telescope system. We are condent that the LX850 will keep you fascinated with the Universe and
entertained for many years to come.
Clear Skies,
The people at Meade
5
Introduction
Meade Instruments latest high-end imaging mount
with Starlock: the LX850™. Using revolutionary
patented technology, every aspect of this system
has been designed to deliver the highest standard in
astrophotographic and visual performance.
Precision Machined German
Equatorial Mount
Constructed of machined stainless steel and aircraft
grade 6061-T6 aluminum, the LX850 mount presents
a rock-solid platform with precision roller bearings on
both axes and a 1.75 inch stainless steel RA shaft. Its
.68 inch diameter brass worms and 5.8 inch diameter,
225-tooth aluminum gears deliver smooth, precise
movement with up to a 90 pound instrument load. Add
to this internal cabling, GPS and the AutoStar II fully-
computerized GoTo system with a database of over
144,000 objects. All this sets atop an ultra-stable tripod.
Faster, Sharper Optical System
Building on Meade’s award-winning Advanced Coma-
Free™ (ACF™) optics, the LX850 employs a fast f/8
optical system with high-contrast baing that assures
crisp, pinpoint imaging to the very edge of the eld.
The all-new OTAs feature an internal Crayford-style,
zero image-shift focusing system with a two-speed, 7:1
control that rigidly holds the primary mirror.
StarLock™ — Full-Time
Automatic Guiding
StarLock — the heart of the LX850 — is the revolutionary
new technology that makes target acquisition on your
imaging sensor and accurate guiding during exposures
completely automatic. With Meade’s exclusive
LightSwitch™ technology at its core, StarLock uses a
80mm f/5 optic and a super wide-angle lens in a two
camera system that automatically nds your target in
high-precision, immediately captures a eld star as dim
as 11th magnitude and then guides to an incredible
accuracy of one arcsecond. StarLock achieves this
amazing accuracy because, unlike add-on guiders,
StarLock is integrated into the telescope control system
and communicates directly with the motor controllers in
real time with a guiding accuracy of 1 arcsecond RMS
with good seeing. There’s no need for a separate guider
or computer and StarLock requires no calibration, no
user focusing or guide star selection. StarLock also
provides computer-assisted polar alignment using the
drift method for extreme precision. No expensive shaft
encoders or additional equipment needed.
Telescope Features
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
Telescope Features
6
q Autostar II handbox
w Handbox Holder
e Micro-focuser Coil Cord
r GPS Sensor
t Telescope Control Panel
y 2-Speed Focus Knob
u SC Thread to 2” Adapter (not shown)
i Diagonal Mirror Thumbscrews
o 2” Star Diagonal with 1.25” Adapter
1) HD-60 25mm Eyepiece
1! Rear Cell Port
1@ Mirror Lock (14" ACF Only)
1# StarLock Cable
1$ Viewnder
1% StarLock Wideeld OTA
1^ StarLock Narroweld OTA
1& StarLock Imaging Sensor Assembly
1* StarLock Dovetail Locks
1( StarLock Mount (On OTA)
2) OTA Dovetail Locks
2! StarLock Counterweight lock
2@ StarLock Counterweight
2# DEC Drive
2$ RA Drive
2% RA Clutch Lock Bolts (3)
2^ RA Drive Connector
2& Counterweight Shaft
2* Altitude Scale
2( Counterweights
3) Altitude Adjustment Knob
3! Counterweight Safety Cap
3@ Azimuth Lock Bolts
3# Azimuth Adjustment Knob
3$ Handbox Holder Tension Knob
3% AutoStar II Coil Cord
Figure 1: LX850 Key Features - Right View
7
LX850 Key Features
LX850 Key Features
1#
1)
o
y
q
w
3%
2*
e
t
2#
3!
3)
3$
2(
3@
2@
2&
2!
r
2)
i
1@
2%
1(
1$
1^ 1& 1*
1!
u
2$
2^
1%
3#
LX850 Key Features
3^ Altitude Lock Knob
3& Carry Handles
3* DEC External Cable Access Port
3( DEC Drive Power Connector
4) DEC Clutch Lock Bolts (3)
4! StarLock Dovetail Lock Bolts
4@ StarLock Mount (on saddle )
4# Optical Tube Assembly (OTA)
4$ Viewnder Collimation Screws
4% OTA Dovetail Rail
4^ RA External Cable Access Port
4& RA Polar Cap
4* Spreader Bar
4( Spreader Bar Tension Knob
5) Mount Locking Knob
5! Tension Hub
5@ Extension Arms
5# Leg Locks
5$ Zero Image Shift Microfocuser
5% Collimation Screws (3)
5^ Dovetail Plate Safety Bolt
Figure 2: LX850 Key Features - Left View
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
LX850 Key Features
8
3^
5@
3( 5$
3*
4)
4%
4^
4&
4#
5#
4(
5)
5!
4$
4!
5^
4@
3&
4*
5%
4^ 2! 2@
2! StarLock Counterweight
2@ StarLock Counterweight Lock Bolt
4^ RA Internal Cable Access Port
5& Lock-down set screw for cover
Figure 5: Saddle Plate
5*
Note that there are dierent angled surfaces on the dovetail brackets on the saddle. In addition to physically moving
the dovetail to accommodate the diering width of Losmandy or Vixen it is important to orient the bracket so that the
pitch to the dovetail matches the corresponding mount. Note that Losmandy style mounting conguration utilizes the
larger, more pronounced pitch. See above. To move the rail, use the 3/16" hex wrench to remove the 4 screws on top
of the rail. After moving and rotating the rail, install the 4 screws and tighten to secure the rail in place.
Losmandy® Style Dovetail Conguration Vixen® Style Dovetail Conguration
Mount Saddle Plate Congurations
9
LX850 Key Features
LX850 Key Features
Figure 3: Detail, RA Access Figure 4: StarLock Counterweight
5&
Telescope Control Panel:
A. ON/OFF Switch
B. 12v DC Power Connector
C. Electronic Focus Port
D. Illuminated Reticle Eyepiece Power Port
E. 12v DC Output
F. Handbox (HBX) Port
G. RS232 Port
H. StarLock Port
I. Aux Autoguider Port
5( StarLock Telescope Connection
6) Guider Status
6! RS-232 Port
6@ Travel Screw
Figure 2-B: LX850 Key Features - Telescope Control Panel
A
B
C
D
E
F G H I
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
LX850 Key Features
10
LX850 Key Features
Figure 6: Telescope Control Panel
STARLOCK:
TELESCOPE
CONNECTION
RS-232
PORT
GUIDER
STATUS
Figure 7: StarLock Control Panel
5(
6)
6!
Figure 8: OTA Rear View
6@ Position of Travel Screw varies by ota
model. Note 14" OTA includes a mirror lock
knob, instead of a travel screw
q AutoStar II Handbox: The LX850 user interface. Use the
Handbox to command the LX850 to automatically slew to any
object in the night sky. See pages 27 thru 43 for a description
of features.
w Handbox Holder: convenient place to place your AutoStar II
box. Keeps it at the ready.
e Micro-focuser Coil Cord: Connects the micro-focuser to the
control panel.
r GPS Sensor: Used to get precise date, time and location of
your observing site using global positioning satellites.
t Telescope Control Panel:
A. ON/OFF Switch
B. 12v DC Power Connector
C. Electronic Focus Port
D. Illuminated Reticle Port
E. 12v DC Output
F. Handbox (HBX) Port
G. RS232 Port
H. StarLock Port
I. Aux Autoguider Port
y 2-Speed Crayford Style Focusing Knobs: Moves the
telescope’s primary mirror in a nely-controlled mo-tion to
achieve precise image focus. The LX850 telescopes can be
focused on objects from a distance of about 200 ft to innity.
Rotate the focus knob clockwise to focus on distant object.
u SC Thread to 2” accessory adapter (not shown): The 2”
Diagonal Mirror is inserted into this accessory adapter if micro-
focuser is not used. See gure 29 on page 21.
i 2” Adapter Thumbscrews: Tighten to secure the 2” Diagonal
in place.
o 2” Star Diagonal with 1.25” Adapter: Holds the eyepiece
upright for easy viewing. Provides a more comfortable right-
angle viewing position. Slide the diagonal directly into the 2”
Adapter and tighten the thumbscrew to a rm feel only. See
page 19 for a photo and more information.
1) Eyepiece: Place the supplied HD-60 25mm eyepiece into the
2” Star Diagonal with 1.25” Adapter (Pg 19, Fig. 23) and tighten
in place with locking thumbscrew.
1! Rear Cell Port: Rear connecting thread for attaching telescope
accessories. Uses a standard SCT 2" x 24 TPI male thread.
1@ Mirror Lock (14" ACF Only): Tighten to lock the primary mirror
in place. Used for astroimaging to prevent mirror op. When
using the focusing knob (Fig 1, #6), the mirror lock must be in
the unlocked position or damage to the focuser can result.
1# StarLock Connector Cable: 4-pin connector cable plugs into
StarLock.
1$ Viewnder: 8x50, wide-eld sighting scope with crosshairs
that enables easy centering of objects in the telescope
eyepiece.
1% StarLock Connector Panel: Starlock cable connection point
and place where Starlock status is displayed.
1^ StarLock Wideeld OTA: Used to orient the LX850 in relation
to the sky. Performs High-Precision pointing.
1& StarLock Narroweld OTA: Narroweld optics that are used
to precisely guide LX850 StarLock System.
1* StarLock Locking Bolt: Secures the StarLock assembly to
the saddle plate.
1( StarLock Mount (On OTA): Attaches StarLock to the
telescope mount saddle plate.
2) OTA Dovetail Locks: Secures the OTA dovetail rail to the
LX850 saddle plate.
2! StarLock Counterweight Lock: Tighten to secure the
counterweight in place.
2@ StarLock Counterweight: Precisely counter balance the
StarLock assembly by moving this weight. Remove if you
mount StarLock directly on the OTA.
2# DEC Drive Housing: Precisely moves the telescope around
the DEC Axis.
2$ RA Drive: Precisely moves the telescope around the RA Axis.
2% RA Clutch: Tighten the three hex head screws using the
included 5/16” hex head tool to engage the RA Drive.
2^ RA Drive Cable: Connect the RA drive to the Telescope
Control Panel.
2& Counterweight Shaft: Thread the counterweight onto this
shaft (below).
2* Altitude Scale: Set the latitude of the observing site on this
scale using the latitude adjustment knob.
2( Counterweight: Counterbalances the weight of the optical
tube, and adds stability to the mount.
3) Latitude Adjustment Knob: Used to set the LX850 to the
correct latitude for your observing site.
3! Counterweight Safety Cap: Prevents the counterweight from
11
LX850 Key Features
LX850 Key Features
accidentally slipping o the end of the counterweight shaft.
3@ Azimuth Lock Bolts: Once your LX850 is aligned on the
celestial pole, lock the azimuth bolts to prevent movement in
this direction.
3# Azimuth Adjustment Knob: Once the Azimuth Locking bolts
are loose, make adjustments to the mounts azimuth position
aligning it to the celestial pole. When properly adjusted, lock
the Azimuth Adjustment Lock bolts to prevent unwanted
Azimuth movement in the LX850.
3$ Handbox Holder Tension Knob: Loosen to adjust
presentation angle – tighten to lock in place.
3% AutoStar II Coil Cord: Connects the handbox to the Computer
Control Panel via the HBX port.
3^ Altitude Lock Knob: Before using the Altitude Adjustment
Knob, loosen the Altitude Lock Knob. Once the latitude is
adjusted, be sure to lock this knob to prevent unwanted
movement of the LX850.
3& LX850 Carry Handles: Use these carry handles to help move
the LX850 mount from one location to another.
3* DEC Internal Cable Access Port: Loosen the two
thumbscrews, slide the door open to gain access to the cable
raceway that runs the length of the DEC Axis.
3( DEC Drive Power Connector: Connects the DEC Motor to
the Compute Control Panel.
4) DEC Clutch Lock Bolts: Tighten the three hex head bolts
using the included 5/16” hex head tool to engage the DEC
Drive.
4! StarLock Locking Bolts: Secures the StarLock assembly to
the saddle plate.
4@ StarLock Mount (On Saddle): Attaches StarLock to the
telescope mount saddle plate.
4# Optical Tube Assembly (OTA): The main optical component
that gathers the light from distant objects and brings this light
to a focus for examination with the eyepiece or camera.
4$ Viewnder Collimation Screws: Adjust these screws to align
the viewnder. See page 21 for more information.
4% OTA Dovetail Rail: Connection point between the OTA and
saddle plate.
4^ RA Internal Cable Access Port: Loosen the two thumbscrews,
slide the door open to gain access to the cable raceway that
runs the length of the RA Axis.
4& RA Polar Cap: Covers the RA polar axis.
4* Spreader Bar: Rigidly holds legs open and allows placement
for several 1.25" accessories.
4( Spreader Bar Tension Knob: Tightens spreader bar to legs.
Loosen to allow the spreader bar to be rotated between the
tripod legs.
5) Mount Locking Knob: Secures the mount to the tripod.
5! Tension Hub: Locates extension arms.
5@ Extension arms: Locates tripod legs.
5# Leg Locks: Locks leg extension in place.
5$ Zero Image Shift Microfocuser: Electrronic focuser used for
precision remote focusing.
5% ACF Collimation Adjustment Screws: Use these 3 screws to
ne tune your OTA’s optical alignment.
5^ Dovetail Rail Safety Bolt: Make sure the Safety knob is
securely attached.
5& Access Port Knob: Secures cover plates to RA and DEC
cable raceway.
5* Dovetail Adapter Attachment Rails: The LX850 dovetail
adapter is unique in that it will accept both the Losmandy and
Vixen style dovetails. Remove and reverse the two surrounding
dovetail rails so the correct rail angle points toward the dovetail
size being used. Be sure to securely tighten the rails. See page
9.
5( StarLock Telescope Connection: Connect StarLock to the
telescope control panel.
6) Guider Status: LED indicates operation.
6! RS-232 Port: Additional RS-232 port.
6@ Travel Screw: Firmly secures the primary mirror in a xed
position during travel protecting the focusing mechanism from
shock damage. Remove this screw before attempting to focus
the telescope.
Note: 14" ACF models– use a mirror lock mechanism instead
of the travel screw.
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
LX850 Key Features
12
LX850 Key Features
You may want to perform the assembly of the LX850
in the light of day to become familiar with the parts and
operation before performing observations on the night
sky. Setup the telescope in a large open area where
you can see lots of sky. Do not setup right next to a
building or a wall that will obstruct its view of the sky.
Make sure the ground is stable and is approximately
level. It is best to set up the scope away from bright
nighttime lighting, as bright lights will spoil your night
vision and impede your ability to see the sky.
The LX850 system includes the following:
• German Equatorial Mount Assembly
1. RA assembly with base
2. DEC assembly
3. Dovetail saddle plate
• Starlock Autoguider System
• Counterweight(s)
• Counterweight Shaft with Safety Nut
• Giant Field Tripod
• LX850 Accessories
• LX850 Control Panel
• Autostar II Hand Controller
• StarLock Cable
• StarLock Counterweight
• Custom Utility Tool
• 3/16" & 5/16” Hex head wrenches
• #507 Connecting Cable with USB Adapter
• Internal Cable Fish Tool
• Anti-Vibration Pads
• Bubble/Level Compass
• Micro-focuser (ACF OTAs only)
Additionally, the LX850 can be ordered with various
OTAs and accessories and may contain additional
counterweights and boxes depending on the
conguration ordered.
Assembly Tools
All of the tools necessary to assemble your LX850
telescope will be found in the accessory box:
• LX850 lock knob wrench: A dedicated tool for
securing small and large knobs on the telescope.
• 3/16" & 5/16” hex head wrenches: Required for
securing DEC & RA assemblies, clutches, and
saddle plate.
• Internal Cable Fish Tool: Assist routing StarLock,
DEC, RA, and accessory connecting cables.
Use of these tools will be described in the assembly
procedure. If you will be attaching an OTA that utilizes
a Vixen Style dovetail you will need the 3/16” hex head
wrench (included) to relocate the mounting rails on the
dovetail plate.
Tripod Assembly
Remove the Giant Field Tripod from the shipping
carton. Included in this carton is the spreader bar,
threaded rod, and retaining clip; set these aside.
Note: When assembling the tripod spreader assembly,
a large threaded knob and washer is needed directly
below the spreader. The knob and washer is included
in the LX850 accessory box and is specic to the
LX850 assembly.
Position the tripod where you want the telescope to
be assembled. Stand the tripod vertically with the
tripod feet down and with the tripod still fully collapsed.
Assembly
Fig 9: LX850 assembly tools.
Fig 10: Tripod.
Collapsed Opened
Leg points to
true North
LX850 Utility Tool
3/16" & 5/16" Hex Head
Wrench
Internal Cable Fish Tool
13
Assembly
Grasp two of the tripod legs, and with the full weight
of the tripod on the third leg, gently pull the legs apart
to a fully open position. The legs should be spread
so the three leg braces are spaced evenly apart and
the tripod head is approximately level. Position one
of the legs so that it points approximately true North
(true South in the southern hemisphere). If you are
observing at low latitudes, you can point the tripod
leg true South (true North in southern hemisphere) to
allow the counterweight shaft to clear the tripod.
Loosen the two (2) leg lock-knobs on each tripod leg.
Adjust the height of the tripod to the desired height
and with the tripod head approximately level, tighten
the leg locks. Place the included bubble/level compass
onto the tripod head to verify it is level. Tighten the
locks to a rm feel only; do not over tighten.
The LX850 accessory box includes a large black
threaded knob and washer that is needed for use
with the tripod. This knob is threaded directly below
the spreader and controls its height so it can tighten
against each tripod leg.
Locate this knob and thread it onto the threaded rod
until it is at the bottom. Next, slide the washer onto
the threaded rod. Finally, slide the spreader onto the
threaded rod. This arrangement should look like Fig.
11.
Slide the threaded rod assembly through the central
mounting hole in the tripod head. Place the threaded
rod through central mounting hole far enough so that
the retaining clip channel is exposed. Press t the
retaining clip through the machined channel. The
retaining clip will now hold the spreader bar for easy
assembly.
Assemble the Mount
The Meade LX850 mount body ships in smaller pieces
to reduce the mount weight & packaging materials and
requires assembly before use. Once assembled, it can
be left assembled or taken apart for easier transport to
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
Assembly
14
Fig 12: Threaded Rod Assembly.
Fig 11 Threaded Rod Assembly.
a dark sky observing site.
Be sure to unpack all the LX850 boxes and identify
each needed component. To assemble the Meade
LX850, you will need the following parts:
• 4 pcs ¼-20x ¾” screws
• 5 pcs ¼-20 x 1” screws
• 1 pcs 3/8-16 x 1” screws
• LX850 RA assembly with base
• LX850 DEC assembly
• LX850 Saddle plate
• Starlock cable
• Starlock counterweight
• Tripod with spreader assembly
• 3/16” Hex wrench
• 5/16” Hex wrench
Study the reference image in Fig. 12 Fig. 12 to become
familiar with the LX850 mount components and how
they assemble together.
Attach the RA Assembly to the Tripod
Assembling the mount is easiest when assembling it
onto the tripod. See the previous section titled "Tripod
Assembly" before proceeding to the next step.
1. Place the RA assembly (Fig 12, #7) onto the
tripod head (Fig 12, #8) and secure in place with
the tripod mounting stud (Fig 12, #10). The RA
assembly (Fig 12, #7) should be facing in the
direction of true North for Northern Hemisphere
users or in the direction of true South if in the
Southern Hemisphere.
2. With the tripod spreader arms (Fig 12, #9) making
contact with each leg, tighten the large black
knob below the spreader to a rm feel. The mount
should look like Fig. 13 and mount should not slip
on the tripod head.
Attach the DEC Assembly
3. Note: Before attaching the DEC assembly (Fig 12,
#2), it is advised to adjust the mount latitude to
your observing site latitude. See "Setting Latitude"
on page 17 for assistance. This will allow the
weight of the DEC assembly (Fig 12, #2) to rest
on the RA assembly (Fig 12, #7) while performing
the installation. Take caution to not drop the DEC
assembly (Fig 12, #2).
4. To begin, line up the RA registration marks on the
right side of the RA assembly (Fig 12, #7).
5. Using the 5/16” hex wrench tighten the three RA
clutch lock screws shown in Figure 13 to prevent
the RA assembly (Fig 12, #7) from rotating.
6. Place the DEC assembly (Fig 12,#2) onto the RA
assembly (Fig 12, #7) as shown in the gure 14.
7. Insert the four ¼-20 x ¾” (Fig 12, #1) screws and
lightly secure all screws using the included 3/16”
hex wrench.
8. Note: It is best to lightly tighten the bottom mounting
screws rst, then nish with the top screws since
one of the top screws is dicult to access.
9. Now tighten all four screws tightly until secure.
15
Assembly
Fig 13: Attach the RA/Base Assembly
Fig 14: Attach the DEC asembly
Routing Connector Cables Internally
Designed into the LX850 mount is a raceway that
routes cables through the body of the mount. Cables
connecting the DEC motor and StarLock cables can
be routed through this raceway, eliminating worrisome
“cable interference.” The dedicated connecting cable(s)
can be found in the StarLock and/or the accessories
box along with an assisting cable routing tool. Cables
for additional equipment such as cameras can also be
routed through the internal raceway.
Now route any cables internally to the mount. This
includes the Starlock cable, camera cables, etc.
Starlock Cable:
1. First route the Starlock cable which is the black
cable with 6-pin connector on one side and
4-pin connector on the other. See Figure 15.
Note: The starlock cable is directional! The
6-pin side must be plugged into the port labeled
“Starlock” on the mount control panel. The 4-pin
side must be plugged into the port labeled “Starlock
telescope connection” on the Starlock unit. Failure
to follow these instructions will result in damage to
the telescope and/or Starlock.
2. Route the 4-pin side of the Starlock cable so it
comes out the top left side of the DEC assembly
(Fig 12, #2). The 6-pin side of the connector should
come out of the cable access port on the rear of
the RA axis housing.
3. When routing the starlock cable, leave about
7” of cable hanging out the back of the rear RA
port so it can connect to the control panel. Leave
about 25” – 30” of cable hanging out of the Dec
assembly so it can connect to the Starlock.
Note: Do not route any cables out the top center
hole or they will get damaged when the saddle
plate (Fig 12, #3) is installed.
4. After routing all the needed internal cables,
proceed to attaching the saddle plate (Fig 12, #3)
above.
Attach the Saddle Plate
5. To begin, line up the DEC registration marks on
the left side of the DEC assembly (Fig 12, #2).
6. Using the 5/16” hex wrench tighten the three DEC
clutch locking screws shown in Fig 17 to prevent
the DEC assembly (Fig 12, #2) from rotating.
7. Place the Saddle plate (Fig 12, #3) onto the top
of the Dec assembly (Fig 12, #2) with the Starlock
counterweight (Fig 12, #5) rail placed on the right
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
Assembly
16
Fig 15: Route the Cables
Fig 17: Attach the Saddle Plate
Fig 16: Access to the cable raceway.
side of the mount as shown in the Figure 17.
8. Using the 3/16” hex wrench tighten the ve ¼-20
x 1” (Fig 12, #4) mounting screws into the mount
head to secure the saddle plate into position.
The mount is now assembled.
Setting Latitude
Refer to the latitude chart in Appendix D, page 54 or
consult the internet. Listed are the latitudes for most
major cites world wide. Locate your city in the chart
and note its latitude. If your city is not listed, search for
your cities latitude on the internet.
Loosen the Altitude Adjustment Lock Knob (page
8, #36). Locate the Altitude Adjustment Knob (page
7, #30) and the Altitude Scale (page 7, #28). The
Altitude scale has markings and a range that start at
zero (0) and ends at 70. Turn the Altitude Adjustment
Knob until the indicator points to your corresponding
observing site latitude. Tighten the Altitude Adjustment
Lock Knob to a rm feel.
Attach the Counterweight Shaft
Remove the counterweight shaft, with attached safety
nut, from its packaging. The safety nut is attached at
the factory for shipping. Thread the top of the shaft into
the mount receiver as shown in Fig 18 making sure
that the threads are matching, not binding or cross
threading.
Attach the Counterweight(s)
The counterweights are attached by threading them
onto the counterweight shaft to the desired position. If
the LX850 mount was purchased with a Meade optical
tube assembly (OTA), additional counterweights may
have been included depending on the OTA purchased.
Attach all counterweights that were included with the
mount. A good starting position for the counterweights is
to place them in the middle portion of the counterweight
shaft. When the mount is fully assembled with OTA
and accessories, the counterweights will be adjusted
to obtain a proper balance with the OTA. Note: 12”
and 14” f/8 ACF models please refer to Appendix F for
additional counterweight instructions.
NOTE: WHEN ATTACHING THE COUNTER-
WEIGHT(S) TAKE CARE NOT TO DROP THEM
DURING ASSEMBLY AS THEY CAN CAUSE
SERIOUS INJURY, ESPECIALLY ON THE FOOT.
WHEN ATTACHING OR ADJUSTING THE POSITION
OF TWO (2) COUNTERWEIGHTS PAY ATTENTION
TO THE POSITION OF YOUR HANDS SO NOT TO
PINCH THEM DURING ADJUSTMENT.
Screw the safety nut on the end of the shaft after the
counterweight(s) have been attached.
Attach the Control Module
Take the control panel module out of the box that
contained the mount, and slide it on the mounting rail
at the rear end of the RA housing. Loosen the two
knurled thumbscrew knobs on the bottom side of the
control module and slide it on the rail, tightening the
same thumbscrew knobs. Insert the StarLock six-
pin connector into the receptacle labeled “StarLock”
(Page 10, Fig. 6, H).
DEC and RA Connecting Cables
The connecting cables for the RA & DEC are attached
to the control panel module and can not be removed
from the module. The short cable connects directly
to the RA gearbox that is directly above the module.
Insert the DIN connector, observing and aligning the
orientation of the pins to match. Once the pins are
seated, secure by screwing the dedicated retaining
collar until rm (Fig. 21). The longer cable connects
to the DEC gearbox and will need to be passed
17
Assembly
Fig 18: Attach Counterweight Shaft.
Fig 19: Attach Counterweight.
through the access port on the RA axis, directly above
the module (Fig. 20). Using the cable pull tool, feed
the cable through the raceway, watch for it through
the access port on the front of the RA axis (Fig. 21).
Grasp it as it comes within reach, and feed through the
excess cable. Once it has been fed through, insert and
secure the connector to the DEC drive directly above
the access port (Page 8, #39). Once the pins are
seated, secure by screwing the dedicated retaining
collar until rm.
Attach the Optical Tube Assembly
(OTA)
Note that there are two options for orientating the
dovetail rail and its location. As shipped from the
factory, the saddle plate is congured to receive a
standard Losmandy®-style dovetail. Meade LX850
OTAs are shipped with their dedicated dovetail rails
pre-attached to the tube. Depending on your OTA’s
dovetail, you may need to relocate both sides of the
dovetail receiver rails (Page 9, Fig. 5).
• OTAs with a Vixen®-style dovetail: Many small
refractors utilize a standard Vixen®-style dovetail
rail. To prepare the LX850 saddle plate to accept
the smaller dovetail rail, the LX850 saddle plate
rails must be positioned in the correct location
and with the correct long side of the rail facing
inward toward its corresponding mounting rail.
If you look at each long side of the rail, you will
notice the draft angle is dierent on each side. For
the smaller Vixen®-style dovetail rail, orient both
saddle plate rails so that the narrow draft angle is
facing inward as shown (Page 9, Fig. 5). Position
the inner rail so that it will mate with the narrowest
set of mounting points. To move the inner rail to
the narrower mounting point, use the 3/16” hex
wrench to remove the four mounting screws on top
of the rail. Then rotate and tighten the rail securely
in place at the narrower mounting point.
NOTE: Make sure the correct angled side is used
on both rails before attaching the OTA. Both rails
should be secured rmly to the dovetail adapter
before an OTA is attached.
• OTAs with a Losmandy®-Style dovetail: All
Meade LX850 ACF Optical tubes utilize the
standard Losmandy®-style dovetail rail. The
LX850 is already congured to accept this rail. Due
to its weight and size, it is advisable that the 12”
& 14” Advanced Coma-Free OTAs be mounted by
two (2) people.
NOTE: Before attaching an OTA to the mount, make
sure the clutches on each axis are locked so the
mount does not shift during OTA installation and
the proper number of counterweights are attached.
The correct saddle plate orientation is pointing straight
up the RA axis with StarLock dovetail mounting position
on the left side when viewed from behind the mount.
AutoStar #497 HANDBOX
Assembly
18 NOTE: Remove the travel screw (10" & 12" ACF only) or unlock the mirror lock (14" ACF only) before
attempting to focus the OTA. Failure to do so may result in damage to the Crayford focusing mechanism.
Note: Locking
collar
Fig 21: DIN Style Connector & Front Access Port
Fig 22: Slide the OTA dovetail into the saddle plate
Fig 20: Connecting motor to control module.
Note Rail to attach
Telescope Control Module
To attach an OTA, rmly grasp the OTA, remove it
from the shipping box, and slide the dovetail rail into
the saddle plate. Maintaining a rm grip on the OTA,
tighten the two (2) lock-bolts on the saddle plate to a
“rm” feel using the 5/16" hex wrench.
Attach Diagonal and Eyepiece
Remove the dust cap from the rear cell port of
the telescope.
• Meade ACF OTAs: If your telescope was shipped
with Meade's Zero Image Shift Microfocuser please
refer to the detailed instructions that were included.
Then attached the diagonal into the Microfocuser
followed by the eyepiece.
Attach StarLock Assembly
StarLock’s default mounting location is on the saddle
plate. The 10”, 12” and 14” ACF models feature a
second mounting location at the top-rear of the optical
tube assembly. Due to the longer focal length of the
ACF optics, this second, top of the OTA mounting
point, is preferred for these telescopes, as it minimizes
dierential exure.
Locate and unpack the StarLock assembly. The Starlock
dovetail adapter and its dedicated counterweight are
pre-installed at the factory. The StarLock assembly
is attached to the dovetail adapter on the left side of
the OTA or on top of the ACF OTA. To install StarLock
on the saddle plate, loosen the two (2) mounting bolts
on the side of dovetail adapter, slip in the StarLock
assembly, position Starlock so that the back edge of
the StarLock dovetail is ush with the lower edge of
the saddle plate. Tighten to securely retain StarLock
(Page 8, Fig. 41).
Locate the included rectangular counterweight, loosen
Fig 23: Diagonal and eyepiece in place
its securing screw, and slide it on the rail on the
opposite side of the dovetail adapter (if needed). Note
that the counterweight is NOT needed when StarLock
is mounted on top of the LX850 ACF OTA. Only use
the counterweight when StarLock is mounted directly
to the saddle plate. Secure the counterweight by re-
tightening the screw.
Attach the four-pin StarLock connector cable to the
rear panel of StarLock in the receptacle on the left side
(Page 10, Fig. 7, #59).
Plug in the AutoStar II Handbox
Locate and unpack the AutoStar II handbox. The
connecting cable is packed together with the handbox.
Plug one connector into the handbox, and the other
into the “HBX” receptacle on the control module.
Attach the Viewnder to the OTA
The Meade OTAs sold with the LX850 are equipped
with a standard 8x50 nderscope. To assemble and
align the viewnder, perform steps 1 through 6 below
during the daytime.
19
Assembly
Fig 24: Mounting StarLock to the saddle plate. Attach
StarLock counterweight.
Fig 25: Slide viewnder into receiver
1. Assemble the viewnder by attaching all included
thumbscrews onto the viewnder bracket and
insert the 8X50 viewnder into the bracket. Tighten
the thumbscrews to a rm feel only so the 8x50
optical tube is roughly centered in the middle of
the bracket.
2 . Slide the viewnder bracket into its mounting
assembly on the OTA (Page 7, Fig. 1, #1). To secure
the viewnder to the mounting assembly, tighten
the two thumbscrews (Page 7, Fig. 1, #14) to a rm
feel only.
Mount Additional Accessories and
Equipment
At this time it is advisable to mount any additional
accessories and equipment that you will be using
during nighttime use. Balancing the telescope is the
next step and it is important that this procedure be
performed in its operational conguration.
Balancing the Telescope
Level the mount, using the integrated bubble level
at the base of the mount as an aide if necessary, by
adjusting the length of the three tripod legs.
Before using the telescope, you will need to balance the
RA/DEC axes and the StarLock. Before you balance,
attach the eyepiece assembly, the viewnder and all
the accessories you will be using with the telescope
(cameras, guide scopes, etc.). In other words, you
need to balance the unit with all the “weight” that will
be attached to it.
To balance the telescope, unlock the Right Ascension
or RA clutches (3-Places, Page 15, Fig. 13). When
this axis is unlocked, the telescope pivots on the RA
axis. Later in the procedure, you will also unlock the
Declination or DEC clutches (3-Places, Page 16, Fig.
17). When unlocked, it pivots on the DEC axis. Try to
become familiar with these locks and observe how
the telescope moves on each axis. To obtain a ne
balance of the telescope, follow the method below:
Balancing the RA Axis
1. Firmly hold the optical tube secure so that it cannot
accidentally swing freely. NOTE: An unbalanced
OTA can swing quickly causing injury to the user.
Loosen the RA Clutch. The optical tube now moves
freely about the RA axis. Rotate the telescope so
that the counterweight shaft (Page 20, Fig. 26) is
parallel (horizontal) to the ground.
2. Rotate the counterweight along the counterweight
shaft until the telescope remains in the horizontal
position without moving in either direction. Now
push the RA shaft from the end up and down.
Adjust the counterweight position until it takes the
same force to move the RA shaft up and down.
Balancing the DEC Axis
Again, hold the optical tube so that it cannot accidentally
swing freely. NOTE: An unbalanced OTA can swing
quickly causing injury to the user. Position the RA axis
parallel to the ground and tighten the RA locks. Unlock
the DEC Clutches. The telescope now is able to move
freely about the DEC axes. Position the OTA parallel
to the ground.
Advanced Coma-Free OTAs: Slightly loosen the OTA
dovetail adapter lock knobs (Page 7, Fig. 20) so that
the tube assembly slides easily back and forth in the
dovetail mount. Be careful that the OTA does not fall
out of the dovetail adapter! Start with 1/2" of the OTA
dovetail plate extended out of the DEC Saddle (See
Appendix F, pg 56). Move the OTA assembly fore or
aft, in the dovetail adapter until the telescope remains
in horizontal position without tending to drift down in
Fig 26: Balancing the RA axes
Move Counterweight
To Achieve RA Balance
RA Axis
Assembly
Assembly
20
Slide the OTA to
achieve balance
Fig 27: Balancing the DEC axes
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
Page is loading ...
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
-
11
-
12
-
13
-
14
-
15
-
16
-
17
-
18
-
19
-
20
-
21
-
22
-
23
-
24
-
25
-
26
-
27
-
28
-
29
-
30
-
31
-
32
-
33
-
34
-
35
-
36
-
37
-
38
-
39
-
40
-
41
-
42
-
43
-
44
-
45
-
46
-
47
-
48
-
49
-
50
-
51
-
52
-
53
-
54
-
55
-
56
-
57
-
58
-
59
-
60
Ask a question and I''ll find the answer in the document
Finding information in a document is now easier with AI
Related papers
-
Meade 37-0850-00 Owner's manual
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-